Chapter 105

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The Chapter 105 program in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, is part of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) regulations governing waterway and wetland management. This program aims to regulate activities that impact watercourses, floodplains, and wetlands to protect these valuable resources. Here's an overview of the key aspects of this program:

Purpose and Scope
The Chapter 105 program is designed to:

• Protect Pennsylvania's water resources from degradation.
• Manage and mitigate the impacts of development on waterways and wetlands.
• Ensure sustainable use of water resources for current and future generations.

Regulatory Requirements

1. Permits and Approvals:
   • The program requires permits for any work involving encroachments and obstructions in waterways, floodplains, and wetlands.
   • Permits ensure that activities do not adversely affect the water resources, aquatic habitats, and surrounding ecosystems.
2. Types of Permits:
   • General Permits: For minor projects with minimal impact, such as small stream crossings, docks, and minor road improvements.
   • Individual Permits: Required for more significant projects that have the potential to cause substantial environmental impacts.
   • Joint Permits: Coordinated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for activities that affect navigable waters and wetlands.
3. Wetlands:
   • Protection of wetlands is a key component, with specific regulations to prevent degradation, loss, or impairment.
   • Activities affecting wetlands may require mitigation measures, such as creating new wetlands to replace those impacted by development.

Susquehanna County Implementation
The Susquehanna County Conservation District (SCCD) often helps administer the Chapter 105 program locally. Our responsibilities include:

• Assisting with permit applications and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
• Conducting site inspections and monitoring ongoing projects to ensure adherence to permit conditions.
• Providing education and technical assistance to landowners, developers, and the public.

Best Management Practices (BMPs)Some common BMPs promoted under the Chapter 105 program include:

• Designing projects to avoid and minimize impacts on water resources.
• Implementing erosion and sediment control measures to protect water quality.
• Creating buffer zones around waterways and wetlands to preserve their ecological functions.
• Restoring disturbed areas to their natural condition after project completion.

Enforcement and Compliance

• Inspections: Regular site inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.
• Violations: Non-compliance can result in enforcement actions, including fines, orders to cease work, and requirements to restore impacted areas.
• Remediation: Projects found in violation must take corrective actions to restore compliance and mitigate any environmental damage.

Resources and Assistance

• Susquehanna County Conservation District: Provides resources and assistance for navigating the permit process, implementing BMPs, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• PA DEP: Offers guidelines, forms, and regulatory information on their website, along with support for complex projects. www.dep.pa.gov

Contact Information
For more detailed information or assistance, you can contact Jason, at the Susquehanna County Conservation District, by calling 570-782-2105